When it comes to houseplants, few categories have surged in popularity as dramatically as succulents. Their sculptural forms, low-maintenance reputations, and adaptability to modern aesthetics make them a favorite among plant enthusiasts. But where does the aloe plant—specifically the genus Aloe—fit into this picture? Is Aloe considered a succulent? To answer this, we'll dive into the botanical definitions, shared traits, and distinctions between aloes and other succulents, while exploring their roles in horticulture and everyday plant parenting.
Defining Succulents: What Makes a Plant "Succulent"?
The term "succulent" derives from the Latin sucus, meaning "juice" or "sap." Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to thrive in arid environments. This adaptation isn't limited to a single plant family; instead, it's a survival strategy that has evolved convergently across multiple botanical lineages. Ordinary succulent families include Cactaceae (cacti), Crassulaceae (jade plants, echeverias), Aizoaceae (living stones), and Asphodelaceae, which includes the genus Aloe.
Key characteristics of succulents include:
● Thick, fleshy tissues for water storage.
● Reduced leaf surface area to minimize evaporation (e.g., spines in cacti).
● CAM photosynthesis is a water-efficient process where stomata open at night to reduce moisture loss.
● Shallow root systems can quickly absorb rainwater.
By this definition, aloe plants undeniably qualify as succulents. But their unique traits and cultural significance set them apart in the broader succulent family.
Aloe: A Succulent with a Legacy
The genus Aloe comprises over 500 species, ranging from the widely cultivated Aloe vera to rare, sculptural varieties like Aloe polyphylla (spiral aloe). Native to Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula, aloes have evolved to survive in harsh, dry climates. Their iconic rosettes of lance-shaped leaves, often edged with serrated teeth, are instantly recognizable.
Why Aloe Stands Out Among Succulents
Medicinal and Cultural Significance
Unlike many succulents grown purely for ornamental purposes, Aloe—particularly Aloe vera—has been revered for millennia for its healing properties. The gel inside its leaves is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a staple in skincare and traditional medicine. This dual role as both a decorative and functional plant elevates its status in human cultivation.
Distinctive Morphology
While most succulents prioritize compact growth to conserve water (e.g., echeverias or haworthias), some aloes grow into towering specimens. For example, Aloe arborescens can reach heights of 10 feet, resembling small trees. Even smaller aloes tend to have a more "structured" appearance than the softer, rounder forms of many succulents.
Flowering Behavior
Aloes produce striking tubular flowers on tall stalks, typically in red, orange, or yellow shades. This contrasts with the often subtler blooms of other succulents, such as the tiny white flowers of a jade plant.
Aloe vs. Other Succulents: A Care Comparison
While aloes share the drought-tolerant nature of succulents, their care requirements highlight both overlaps and nuances.
Light Requirements
● Succulents: Most thrive in bright, indirect light. Some, like cacti, tolerate direct sun.
● Aloe: Prefers bright, indirect light but can scorch in intense afternoon sun. Indoors, a south- or west-facing window is ideal.
Watering Needs
● Succulents: Infrequent, deep watering. Overwatering is a leading cause of death.
● Aloe: Similar—water only when the soil is completely dry. However, Aloe's thicker leaves may retain moisture slightly longer than thinner-leaved succulents like sedums.
Soil and Drainage
Both require well-draining soil mixes (e.g., cactus/succulent soil with added perlite or pumice). However, aloes are slightly more tolerant of organic matter, as their natural habitats sometimes include richer soils near shrubs.
Temperature and Humidity
● Succulents: Generally prefer warm, dry conditions. Few tolerate frost.
● Aloe: Most species are frost-sensitive, though some (e.g., Aloe striata) can handle brief cold spells. High humidity can promote rot, so airflow is critical.
Public Perception: Aloe as the "Gateway Succulent"
In popular culture, Aloe occupies a unique niche. For many, it's the first succulent they encounter, thanks to its ubiquity in pharmacies, supermarkets, and home kitchens. This accessibility has shaped its reputation as a "practical" plant rather than a collectible rarity. Meanwhile, succulents like echeverias or lithops are often marketed as trendy decorative items, prized for their symmetry and unusual shapes.
Yet, this perception is shifting. As plant enthusiasts delve deeper into succulent diversity, unusual aloe species—such as the ghostly Aloe brevifolia or the geometric Aloe peglerae—are gaining attention for their sculptural beauty. Social media platforms showcase aloes alongside other succulents, blurring the line between "functional" and "aesthetic" plants.
Conclusion: Aloe's Place in the Succulent Family
Botanically, Aloe is unequivocally a succulent. Its water-storing leaves, drought adaptations, and membership in the Asphodelaceae family align it with well-known succulents like Haworthia and Gasteria. However, its historical uses, architectural growth habits, and cultural resonance distinguish it from its cousins.
For gardeners, this duality is a strength. Aloe bridges the gap between utility and ornamentation, offering a low-maintenance plant with tangible benefits. Whether you're drawn to its healing gel, striking flowers, or sculptural forms, Aloe embodies the versatility that makes succulents so compelling. Ultimately, labeling it "just a succulent" feels almost reductive—it's a testament to how diverse and dynamic this plant category truly is.
